IBM and PricewaterhouseCoopers have paid $5.2 million to settle government allegations that they made improper payments on government technology contracts.

IBM agreed to pay nearly $3 million, while accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers will pay $2.3 million.

The US government claimed that both companies solicited, paid money or provided other benefits to several companies.

The agreement means that the two companies do not have to admit any guilt and they have denied the kickback allegations. They have not said why they didn't go to court if they believed they were innocent.

HP, Sun and Accenture are also facing an investigation over similar allegations.

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